Pandharpur Correspondent
A group of around 40 to 50 transgender individuals in Pandharpur submitted a memorandum to the Chief Officer of Pandharpur Municipal Council, Mahesh Rokade, demanding rightful housing and employment opportunities to lead a dignified life.
Through the efforts of BJP Kisan Morcha State Secretary Mauli Halnawar, former Municipal President Laxman Tatya Shirsat, former BJP Taluka President Vikram Shirsat, and RPI leader Deepak Chandanshive, the transgender individuals and their guru Parshu Pawar President of Shri Yellamadevi Multipurpose Social Organization are seeking to secure dignity and respect in society.
The societal outlook towards the transgender community remains mixed. While some treat them with empathy and understanding, others still hesitate to accept them. Often rejected by their own families, many transgender persons are forced to live in overcrowded, substandard conditions, with 10 to 15 people sharing a single room at their guru’s residence. Finding rental housing in the city is nearly impossible, and many are forced to beg on the streets and in markets to survive.
In response, Chief Officer Mahesh Rokade held a positive discussion with the community, acknowledging their hardships. It was announced during the meeting that savings groups will be formed for the transgender community, enabling them to benefit from various central government schemes. Employment opportunities will also be made available through the Municipal Council.
This information was shared by community members Seema Mane, Nagma Gaikwad, Vaishnavi Waghmare, Nita Wakchaware, Ayesha Gaikwad, Durva Bhosale, Jyoti, Meenabai, Anita, and Jaya, who were present at the meeting along with many others from the transgender community.
Transgenders to Benefit from Central Government Schemes:
"The Central Government has launched various schemes for the transgender community, through which benefits can be provided. Efforts will be made to form savings groups and create employment opportunities, including possible inclusion in municipal anti-encroachment squads," — Mahesh Rokade, Chief Officer, Pandharpur Municipal Council.
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